A new project could transform how people get around Dubai

Dubai has unveiled the concept for THE LOOP, a 93-kilometer network of routes for pedestrians, runners, and cyclists. The project was developed by URB, a company specializing in sustainable urban planning and eco-friendly infrastructure.

The creators intend for the new system to connect key districts of Dubai, providing over 3 million residents with convenient access to essential city facilities without the need for a private car.

THE LOOP is envisioned as a multifunctional transport and public corridor that integrates active mobility, recreational areas, sports infrastructure, and green technology.

The project aligns with the 20-minute city concept

A cornerstone of THE LOOP is the 20-minute city model. It assumes that residents can reach their daily necessities and services within approximately 20 minutes by walking or cycling.

This includes access to public transport, shops, workspaces, sports facilities, recreational areas, and other urban infrastructure.

Implementing such a concept can reduce the number of short car trips and make residential areas more interconnected.

A climate-controlled route for year-round use

According to the proposed design, THE LOOP will feature a climate control system, allowing the route to be used throughout the entire year.

This is particularly important for Dubai, where high temperatures during the summer months limit the ability to walk or cycle outdoors for long periods.

A controlled microclimate is intended to create comfortable conditions for walking, running, and cycling regardless of the season. The project developers expect that by 2040, more than 80% of the city's residents will be able to use active modes of transport for their regular commutes to key infrastructure.

Shifting from a car-centric model to a human-centric urban environment

Dubai's current transport system is largely car-oriented. THE LOOP offers an alternative model that prioritizes pedestrians, cyclists, and public transport users.

According to URB CEO Baharash Bagherian, the project's goal is to make Dubai one of the most connected cities in the world for walking and cycling.

The route is viewed as more than just a way to get from one point to another; plans include creating public spaces, leisure areas, sports zones, and additional services along the path.

Integrating THE LOOP with the metro and other public transport

A vital part of the project will be connecting cycling and pedestrian routes with metro stations and other transport hubs.

This integration will allow residents to combine different modes of travel. For example, one could cycle part of the way and then continue the journey by metro.

Such a system could simplify the so-called first and last mile of a trip—the journey from home to a public transport station and from the station to the final destination.

Key features of THE LOOP project

According to the published concept, the project includes:

• a total route length of 93 kilometers;
• zero-emission transport infrastructure;
• the use of renewable energy sources;
• the application of energy-harvesting technologies from human movement;
• the use of recycled water for irrigating green spaces;
• the creation of public spaces;
• the development of sports and wellness infrastructure;
• the installation of vertical farms.

THE LOOP is designed to integrate transport, environmental, and social functions into a single urban system.

Renewable energy and recycled water

The project developers state that THE LOOP infrastructure will be powered by renewable energy.

The use of kinetic technologies is also being considered. Special paving on certain sections of the route will be able to convert the energy from footsteps and user movement into electricity.

The generated energy is intended to power specific infrastructure elements. The paving may also be embedded with sensors to track visitor numbers and the amount of energy produced.

Recycled water is planned for the maintenance of green spaces, in line with the principles of sustainable resource management.

Sports and public spaces along the route

THE LOOP is conceived as a comprehensive urban environment, rather than just a pedestrian or bicycle path.

The route may feature:

• sports grounds;
• fitness zones;
• bicycle parking;
• landscaped walking areas;
• small public parks;
• relaxation areas;
• wellness centers;
• health tourism facilities;
• hotel infrastructure.

This format can expand opportunities for active recreation and make physical activity a more accessible part of everyday life.

Vertical farms and food sustainability

One of the unique elements of the concept is the inclusion of vertical farms.

These facilities allow plants to be grown in multi-level systems, using space and water more efficiently. Their integration into THE LOOP is seen as an additional contribution to the city's environmental and food sustainability.

At the same time, vertical farms can serve not only a production purpose but also an educational one, introducing residents to modern urban farming technologies.

THE LOOP supports the goals of the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan

The project aligns with the key objectives of the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, which envisions the development of a connected, sustainable, and comfortable urban environment.

The master plan focuses on the quality of public spaces, pedestrian accessibility, the development of green areas, and more efficient interaction between residential districts and transport infrastructure.

THE LOOP could serve as an example of a comprehensive approach where a transport network simultaneously addresses mobility, recreation, sports, and sustainable development.

Potential environmental and social benefits

According to the developers, the development of a unified active mobility network could contribute to:

• reducing the number of short car trips;
• reducing traffic congestion;
• lowering carbon dioxide emissions;
• reducing urban noise levels;
• increasing residents' physical activity;
• developing public spaces;
• strengthening connections between districts.

In addition, there are plans to create a mobile app that will reward users for walking, jogging, and cycling.

Such a system could boost residents' interest in an active lifestyle and eco-friendly modes of transport.

What THE LOOP could mean for Dubai's real estate market

Developing pedestrian and cycling infrastructure can increase the appeal of districts that gain convenient access to the route.

For homebuyers, proximity to sports zones, public spaces, metro stations, and climate-controlled walking paths could become significant advantages.

For investors, such infrastructure is important in terms of the long-term demand for these areas. Projects located near high-quality pedestrian routes, green spaces, and transport hubs can attract tenants who prioritize a comfortable and active lifestyle.

At the same time, the actual impact on property values will depend on the final route, project timelines, and the degree of THE LOOP's integration with specific residential communities.

Dubai continues to develop a new model of urban mobility

THE LOOP reflects Dubai's ambition to create an urban environment where movement is not limited to the use of cars.

If the concept is implemented as proposed, the city will gain a large-scale network that integrates transport, sports, recreation, and green technology.

This approach has the potential to improve quality of life, enhance connectivity between districts, and further strengthen Dubai's appeal as a destination for long-term living and real estate investment.